Mother Teresa, born Anjezë Gonxhe Bojaxhiu on August 26, 1910, in Skopje, then part of the Ottoman Empire (now North Macedonia), is a name synonymous with selfless service and compassion. Her journey from a young girl in a modest Albanian family to a globally revered figure of charity and humanitarianism is nothing short of an inspiration.
Key points about Mother Teresa
- Anjezë Gonxhe Bojaxhiu was born on August 26, 1910, in Skopje, which was at that time a part of the Ottoman Empire and is currently known as North Macedonia.
- At 18, she joined the Sisters of Loreto in Ireland, taking the name Sister Mary Teresa.
- In 1929, she moved to India to teach at St. Mary’s High School in Calcutta, where she was deeply affected by the extreme poverty.
- In 1948, she left the convent to live among the impoverished, becoming an Indian citizen and establishing an open-air school in Calcutta’s slums.
- In 1950, she founded the Missionaries of Charity, which grew to over 4,500 nuns in more than 130 countries.
- The organization runs facilities for those suffering from HIV/AIDS, leprosy, and tuberculosis, as well as soup kitchens, clinics, orphanages, and schools.
- She faced criticism for her views on abortion and contraception and the conditions in some facilities, but remained committed to her mission.
- She received many honors, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979.
- She died on September 5, 1997, was beatified in 2003, and canonized as Saint Teresa of Calcutta by Pope Francis in 2016.
- Her life inspires millions to engage in selfless service and compassion.
Early Life and Influences
Anjezë was the youngest of three children in her family. Her father, Nikola Bojaxhiu, was a successful businessman who was involved in local politics and community affairs. Tragically, he passed away when Anjezë was just eight years old, leaving her mother, Dranafile Bojaxhiu, to raise the family. Dranafile was a deeply religious woman who instilled in her children the values of charity and compassion, often helping the poor and sick in their community. This early exposure to acts of kindness and service had a profound impact on young Anjezë.
Answering the Call to Serve
From a young age, Anjezë felt a strong calling to serve God and humanity. At 18, she left her home to join the Sisters of Loreto in Ireland, where she took the name Sister Mary Teresa after Saint Thérèse of Lisieux. In 1929, she was sent to India, where she taught at St. Mary’s High School in Calcutta. However, the dire poverty she witnessed outside the convent walls deeply moved her.
Embracing a Life of Service
In 1948, Mother Teresa received permission from the Vatican to leave the convent and live among the poor. She adopted Indian citizenship, donned a simple white sari with a blue border, and ventured into the slums of Calcutta to aid the “poorest of the poor.” With no funds but immense faith, she started an open-air school and began tending to the needs of the destitute and lack of food.
The Missionaries of Charity
In 1950, Mother Teresa founded the Missionaries of Charity, a religious congregation dedicated to helping those in need. The order began with 12 members and has grown to over 4,500 nuns operating in more than 130 countries. The Missionaries of Charity run homes for people dying of HIV/AIDS, leprosy, and tuberculosis, as well as soup kitchens, dispensaries, mobile clinics, orphanages, and schools.
Upholding a Legacy
Mother Teresa’s work was not without controversy. She faced criticism for her views on abortion and contraception and the conditions in some of her homes. However, her unwavering commitment to her mission earned her numerous accolades, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979.
Final Contributions
Mother Teresa passed away on September 5, 1997, but her legacy remains vibrant. She was beatified in 2003 and subsequently canonized as Saint Teresa of Calcutta by Pope Francis in 2016. Her life and work continue to inspire millions around the world to participate in acts of selfless service to humanity.
Mother Teresa: An ideal for women
Mother Teresa exemplifies the profound impact of a life dedicated to noble ideals, rooted in empathy and service to humanity. Her legacy shows that true fulfillment comes from helping others and connecting with the divine. Through her charitable work and spiritual commitment, she inspires us to lead purposeful, kind, and integrity-filled lives.
■ Also Read: Biography of Nelson Mandela: An Icon of Resilience and Justice
In essence, Mother Teresa’s life is a powerful reminder of the difference one person can make through altruism and empathy. Her dedication to the disadvantaged has transformed countless lives. Let us strive to follow her example and positively impact those around us.
How Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj Guides Souls to True Salvation
Saint Rampal Ji Maharaj teaches that past actions significantly impact the soul’s current journey, with virtuous deeds often leading to favorable circumstances. However, He emphasizes that these good deeds alone do not guarantee salvation. He highlights the importance of sincere worship and guidance from a knowledgeable Guru, asserting that chanting “Satnaam” and “Saarnaam” is essential for cleansing past karmas and progressing towards Satlok.
While virtuous actions may offer temporary benefits, they do not free the soul from reincarnation. To achieve true liberation, He advises following the path of sincere devotion as taught by a genuine Guru, which includes understanding the teachings of Supreme God Kabir, living virtuously, avoiding sin, and dedicated worship. This guidance helps souls transcend the material world and attain everlasting peace in Satlok. In summary, true salvation requires a true Guru and authentic worship, beyond just good deeds.
